After Lakes Were Drained At A British Palace, It Revealed An Astonishing Network Of Secret Rooms

In October 2018 work began to restore the Grand Bridge, which forms part of the monumental Blenheim Palace estate in Oxfordshire, England. It aims to revive what was long known as the “finest view in England.” But as experts started the huge $15 million project to fix the 18th century structure, they revealed a treasure trove of surprises lurking beneath.

Blenheim Palace is perhaps best known as being the birthplace of British Prime Minister Winston Churchill in 1874. Indeed, it was his father, Lord Randolph Churchill, who first coined the “finest view in England” phrase. However, Blenheim’s history stretches back much further than that.

Blenheim Palace is the home of the Duke and Duchess of Marlborough. It was gifted to the first duke, John Churchill, as a reward for his role in winning the Battle of Blenheim against the French in 1704 during the War of the Spanish Succession.